GamCare reports record helpline calls

GamCare has said its National Gambling Helpline received more calls and online chats in 2023 than in any previous year.

A total of 52,370 calls and online chats were made across the 12-month period, a 24 per cent increase on 2022.

The charity said August was its busiest record on month, with a 39 per cent increase in calls in December also observed.

“Advisors on the Helpline noted an uptick in calls from people who had been concerned about someone else’s gambling throughout the holiday season, as well as numerous callers saying they struggled to watch television with their families due to the volume of gambling advertising,” GamCare said.

GamCare’s head of remote support services Samantha Turnton said there was a “landmark climb” in people reaching out to speak to advisors.

She admitted it is “concerning to see the rising numbers who need help” but added there was encouragement in advisors reporting more calls are being made at an earlier stage.

“This is an invaluable step to prevent gambling harm from escalating further down the line and we encourage anyone to get in touch if they feel ready to discuss their relationship with it, no matter what stage they are at,” Turnton added.

GambleAware’s chief commissioning and strategy officer Anna Hargrave added: “The increased number of calls to the helpline comes after the launch of the National Gambling Support Network last year, and clearly demonstrates the need for and importance of prevention and early intervention support services.

“These support services need to be prioritised within the new system once the statutory gambling levy is introduced, as we know that swift intervention is essential to help people in the early stages of experiencing gambling harm, before it becomes even more serious.”